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NAMP News
Updates from the Northern Alberta Medical Program
The Puzzle Comes to Life: Celebrating Milestones and Firsts
December brings us to the end of our very first semester and what a remarkable journey it has been. Our students and staff are eagerly anticipating a well-deserved break and it comes at the close of a time worth celebrating.
This term has been nothing short of extraordinary. To stand alongside our partners as we opened the doors to the Northern Alberta Medical Program and welcomed our inaugural class of 30 students has been both a privilege and a milestone. Together, we embraced every “first” with enthusiasm—each one a new puzzle piece that brought the picture of NAMP into sharper focus.
We tackled unfamiliar shapes, unexpected edges and the occasional piece that didn’t seem to fit until it suddenly did. We celebrated small victories, laughed through the odd mismatched moment and discovered that the real success came from assembling this puzzle as a collective. What once looked daunting gradually became a vibrant, meaningful image—one we can all stand back and admire.
Piece by piece, I feel we that we have built something worthy of celebration. We didn’t just put a program together; we brought a vision to life. And now, as we turn the page to a new year, we know more firsts are on the way—more corners to define, more sections to fill in, and more moments that will surprise and inspire us. But we are stepping into that future with confidence, shared purpose, and the same spirit of collaboration that has carried us this far.
To all who have supported us—our partners, colleagues, community members and friends—thank you. Your trust, encouragement and willingness to help place each piece have made this year unforgettable.
Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a bright, restful and inspiring start to the new year.
Holly Handfield - Manager, Northern Alberta Medical Program
Meet a Clinician Scientist with Dr. Ginetta Salvalaggio
On October 24, 2025, we had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Ginetta Salvalaggio at the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital (HEC 204) for our Meet a Clinician Scientist session. Dr. Salvalaggio, Professor in the University of Alberta’s Department of Family Medicine and Associate Scientific Director with the Inner City Health and Wellness Program, shared valuable insights from her journey as a clinician scientist.
Her presentation highlighted the importance of social accountability, patient and community engagement and improving health services for urban underserved populations. Attendees had the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussion about integrating research and clinical practice to advance equitable healthcare.
We thank Dr. Salvalaggio and all participants for making this event an inspiring and thought-provoking session.
Save the Date: NAMP Faculty Development Day
Save the Date for the next Northern Alberta Medical Program Faculty Development Event. More Information to come in January 2026.
Meet the Team
After spending 17 years teaching in an Elementary school classroom, I’m excited to be stepping into a new chapter in post-secondary education. Teaching has always been my passion and I’m looking forward to applying that experience to support students and the program in a different capacity.
My family and I moved to Grande Prairie 14 years ago and I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges of not having a family doctor and the need to travel for specialized care. For that reason, NAMP’s work is especially meaningful to me. Providing medical training in our rural region not only addresses a critical need but also helps future physicians discover all there is to love about the Peace Region!
Erin Harris, Year 2 Curriculum Administrator
My background includes disability management in the public sector , leadership and administrative work in municipal government. These roles strengthened my commitment to clear communication, organized processes and supporting people as they navigate complex systems; skills I now bring to curriculum electives.
Being part of the Northern Alberta Medical Program is an exciting opportunity to help build a learner-focused program that reflects the needs of our students and northern communities. I’m proud to support students as they explore elective opportunities and grow into future physicians who understand the value of rural practice.
Jason Milinkovic, Electives Administrator
Winter Closure
In observance of the winter holidays, the Northern Alberta Medical Program office will be closed from December 26 through December 31. Regular operations will resume on January 2.
Northern Alberta Medical Program Showcases Community Spirit at 37th Annual Festival of Trees
Staff and students from the Northern Alberta Medical Program proudly participated in the 37th Annual Festival of Trees, held in Grande Prairie from November 20–23. As part of their contribution, the team designed and created a collection of beautifully decorated mini trees, which were auctioned to raise funds in support of the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital and Queen Elizabeth II Hospital. In addition to their creative efforts, staff and students generously volunteered many hours to help ensure the success of this cherished community event.
"Cowboy Christmas"
Created by the Staff of NAMP
"Happy NAMPER"
Created by the Class of 2029 NAMP Cohort
"Medicine in the North: The Inspirational Story of Dr. Mary Percy Jackson" Presented by artist Glen Collin
The Northern Alberta Medical Program recently celebrated the legacy of Dr. Mary Percy Jackson with a special exhibit in the Health Education Centre. The launch event brought together community members, Northwestern Polytechnic staff and students, NAMP’s first cohort and members of Dr. Jackson’s family, with the program also streamed to the History of Medicine Club in Edmonton.
The display remained open for two and a half days, giving visitors a chance to explore the life and impact of Dr. Jackson—a pioneering physician who spent 45 years serving Northern Alberta with remarkable dedication. Recruited from England in 1929 to a remote region north of Peace River, her contributions to rural medicine have been honoured by both the Alberta Medical Association and the Alberta Order of Excellence.
MSA History of Medicine Club - NAMP - Matthew Birtle
Make an impact, teach for NAMP
Inspire the next generation of physicians by teaching in the University of Alberta’s MD Program, an innovative medical school dedicated to training diverse, competent and compassionate physician leaders to serve the health needs of all Albertans. Share your expertise, shape future healthcare leaders, and make a lasting impact where it’s needed most!
NAMP Opportunities
The Northern Alberta Medical Program has a number of exciting opportunities for faculty, administrative support staff and preceptors!
Questions?
We would love to hear from you!
Contact the NAMP team at NAMPInformation@ualberta.ca
